Confirmation came Friday morning. There were no details about the departure.

IndyCar and Lotus issued statements in the release.

“We appreciate the effort that Lotus made in helping return manufacturer competition to the Izod IndyCar Series,” said Brian Barnhart, president of operations and strategy for IndyCar. "However, Lotus has made a business decision not to return in 2013 and asked for its release. We wish them well and would welcome their participation again in the future."

“Lotus is grateful to IndyCar for the opportunity to compete during the 2012 season and for the support provided throughout. The decision not to continue was not an easy one and Lotus does not discount the possibility to re-enter the series at some time in the future. For the time being, Lotus will focus on core business activities as a leading sports car manufacturer and world class engineering consultancy.”

The series is left with Chevrolet and Honda. Per series rules, both manufacturers must be able to supply 60 percent of the field. When there are three manufacturers, the requirement is 40 percent.

Lotus’ only IndyCar season began with four teams, but three negotiated prior to the Indianapolis 500. Lotus finished the season with HVM Racing, a single-car team that struggled with the powerplant.